Are you missing any of your teeth? If so, then chances are you’ve endured some of the common inconveniences like difficulty with eating certain foods, lost confidence and the inability to speak normally. Dental implants in State College are considered to be the most reliable form of replacement, but there are 5 myths that suggest it’s not the best route to take. Read on to find out if they’re true!
What is a Dental Implant?
Made from titanium, which is known for its durability and biocompatibility, a dental implant is a cylinder-shaped post that is attached to the jawbone to serve as a replacement to the missing tooth root. Its position is solidified through a three-to-six-month fusing process called osseointegration, which is the formation of new bone cells around the implant.
While the dental implant process is considered to be the “gold standard” for tooth replacement, there are some myths that need to be addressed before you can feel safe with moving ahead with receiving care.
Myth #1 – The Process is Extremely Painful
While it’s not uncommon for patients to experience some discomfort for the first few days after a dental implant is placed, it’s all manageable. Depending on the extent of your surgery, your dentist may either recommend ibuprofen or you’ll be prescribed pain medication to make your recovery process as easy as possible.
Myth #2 – Dental Implants Don’t Look Natural
In actuality, the dental implant process provides the most natural look of any other form of tooth replacement because it rests beneath the gum line. By planting its foundation at the root level, it ensures that once the final restorations are placed, your teeth will look like you were born with them.
Myth #3 – A Dental Bridge is Better
A dental bridge is a fixture that consists of two or more porcelain crown fixtures that are used to replace consecutively missing teeth. The key difference between this procedure and dental implant placement is that the former is positioned above the gum line, utilizing the surrounding teeth as anchors (called abutments).
Thus, a dental bridge can’t compare to a dental implant in durability, longevity, aesthetic appeal or functionality.
Myth #4 – Dental Implants Don’t Last
Along with being the most reliable form of tooth replacement, a dental implant also provides the greatest return on investment. In many cases, when properly cared for, an implant can last up to a lifetime.
Here are some key contributors to greater longevity:
- Brushing and flossing at least two times a day
- Monitoring your food intake to limit the consumption of sugar
- Seeking treatment for bruxism (teeth grinding)
- Maintaining preventive care appointments with your dentist
Myth #5 – Dental Implants are Only for Older Patients
A common misconception is that dental implants are only for the elderly. A sobering data set shows how gum disease (which can lead to tooth loss) is steadily rising among adults of all ages, making it clear that dental implants aren’t just specific to an older demographic. They’re intended, simply, to help any person with tooth loss regain a normal and happy life.
To learn more about the dental implant process and to discover whether it’s the right fit for you, reach out to your dentist in State College to schedule a visit today!
About the Author
Dr. Chris J. Devlin earned his dental degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. He has received additional advanced training from the Dawson Academy and the Pankey Institute, which allows him to replace missing teeth with dental implants in a safe and effective manner. Dr. Devlin restores smiles and changes lives at his private practice, and he can be reached for more information through his website.